Tree Removal Along the East Side of I-57

The Illinois Department of Transportation is requesting bids for tree removal along the east side of Interstate 57 in Fulton County from mile marker 62 to mile marker 68, with electronic bids due July 31, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. to the iCX system. A Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation goal of 3.00 percent applies, requiring bidders to submit a DBE Utilization Plan and applicable participation statements.

The scope includes removal of all trees, brush, and stumps (12 inches below ground by grinding) from the I-57 northbound outside edge of pavement to the right-of-way line, with seeding and mulching of disturbed areas. All tree removal and cleanup must be completed by March 31, 2027, with an additional ten working days permitted for seeding and mulching completion. The highway must remain open to at least two lanes of northbound traffic at all times, with three lanes maintained to the greatest extent possible, and the West Frankfort interchange access must be maintained throughout construction.

The contract is subject to federal-aid requirements and Illinois prevailing wage standards. Multiple utility companies operate in the project area, including Ameren Illinois Gas, Ameren Electric, Frontier Communications, Mediacom, Southeastern Illinois Electric Co-op, West Frankfort Water Department, Metro Communications, CountryMark, Futiva, and Key Rock Energy; contact information for each is provided in the bid documents. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder in conformity with Department terms and conditions.